by Michael Pearson

Testosterone is essential in the muscle building process. Many things affect the production of testosterone. Experts at Harvard Medical School write "physical inactivity and poor diet promote obesity and create poor metabolic health that disrupt sensitive hormone systems that process carbohydrates, fats and proteins: and regulate signaling chemicals that build bone and muscle mass". Testosterone levels correspond to muscle growth. Larger muscles, strength, sex drive, endurance and body fat levels decreasing are attributed to higher testosterone levels. The "bad" cholesterol levels also drop with higher testosterone levels.

Around the age of 35 testosterone levels decrease in men. Andropause (male menopause) occurs and is linked to declining sexual performance, reduced interest in sex, depression muscle atrophy. Increasing testosterone levels has been shown to increase strength, size, sex drive and body fat levels decreasing. Cortisol results from stress, the enemy of all of us. Cortisol has been shown to aid in fat storage and the reduction of testosterone. Removing stress from our lives is important for more than one reason. But the health benefits of losing fat and reducing your risk of a heart attack are just two.

Anabolics as defined in the Medical Dictionary are: any of a group of synthetic derivatives of testosterone which are used clinically to promote growth and repair of body tissues in senility, debilitating illness and convalescence. The bodybuilding world uses them for much the same thing.

Alcohol affects testosterone levels as well as depleting vitamins and minerals. Soy products also by raising estrogen levels with a corresponding decrease in testosterone. Lactose intolerant people use soy without realizing the effects on testosterone levels.

Testosterone level has a direct influence on muscle growth. Men with low testosterone levels can have testosterone therapy to bring their levels back to normal (for their age) Testosterone is required for strength and muscle gains. It also helps with body fat, sex drive, endurance and your mental outlook.

Cortisol affects the metabolism of glucose, protein and fats. It also regulates the immune system and affects many other functions. It is best known for it's role in storing body fat. It also lowers testosterone levels in the body. This is important for gaining muscle and fat loss. Testosterone possess protein anabolic properties and is important in maintaining muscle mass and bone tissue in males.

If you want your muscles to grow you have to push them farther than they have ever been. Check out the various products here http://tinyurl.com/6ffkno that will assist you. Many people think this equates to more reps, sets and more time in the gym. This is not the case and will result in overtraining. If you find you have been doing the same thing for some time and you see no difference, either physically or by poundage, it is time to try another tact.

Soy and alcohol are two products that affect testosterone levels in the body. Anybody trying to gain muscle and lose body fat should use them sparingly, it at all.

Your ability to manufacture testosterone decreases with age. You can help though by eating a good diet. Sleep eight hours a night and keep a positive, upbeat attitude.

To maximize your results in the gym keep your testosterone levels high. I have touched on just a few things you can implement in your day to day routine to get the most out of your body.

The author's site, http://tinyurl.com/6ffkno has articles, resources, products and free ebooks. His blog has his posts as well as a surprise gift.

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